Leukemia is the most common
hematological malignancy, characterized by distorted proliferation and development of leukocytes and their precursors in the blood and bone marrow. Although impressive biologic advance has increased understanding of leukemogenesis, we know little regarding the pathogenic events leading to the initiation and progression of this disease.
microRNAs (
miRNAs) are now recognized as a class of
small, non-protein-coding RNA molecules that can regulate the expression of many genes. The evolutionarily conserved small molecules play important roles in cellular development and function, through mediation of target gene repression. There is significant evidence showing that
miRNAs play an important role in disease, especially in
oncogenesis. Aberrant expression of
miRNAs appears to be a common feature of haematological
malignancies. Since the discovery of miR-15 and miR-16 in CLL, much effect has been done to investigate the small molecule in
leukemia. Several research groups have shown differences in
miRNA expression between normal and malignant cells in
leukemia. So
miRNAs may be involved in
leukemia pathogenesis. Despite the recognition of their synthesis, we know little about their exact molecular function and the identifications of their target genes. Some targets of
miRNAs are antiapoptotic genes such as Bcl2 and Tcl1.
MiRNAs to these genes are natural antagonists and may be also applied in
leukemia therapy. This article reviews the common science supporting
miRNAs and their potential target genes in
leukemia pathogenesis.